A tornado alert released for southwestern Quebec has been lifted after two hours of tension for people throughout the province.

On their website, Environment Canada warned that residents in the Trois-Rivieres, Louiseville, Shawinigan and Berthierville-St-Gabriel areas should exercise caution as tornadoes could form in the wake of a severe thunderstorm.

Environment Canada advised those in an area with threatening weather approaching to take cover immediately.

Anyone observing a funnel cloud, swirling or flying debris or hear a roaring sound should go indoors to a room on the lowest floor and stay away from walls and windows. People in mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other free-standing or temporary shelters are advised to leave and seek shelter in a strong building.

Social media users are cautioning the public that the storm has already caused some damages in areas -- including the collapse of some buildings and toppled trees.